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Comprehensive Exams at 512 Smiles: More Than Just A Dental Check-Up
At 512 Smiles, we believe in the power of conservative care—and that starts with being proactive.
By identifying and discussing potential issues early, whether they might arise in a year or a decade, we can often avoid more complex treatments down the line. Our philosophy is rooted in education: we believe that well-informed patients are empowered to make the best decisions for their own health.
To support this, our exams are thorough, detailed, and never rushed. Each treatment room is equipped with monitors so we can walk you through our findings visually, creating space for honest conversation and collaborative decision-making with your doctor.
During your comprehensive exam, our doctors will perform:
- A complete dental and health history review
- Oral cancer screening
- Periodontal (gum) evaluation
- Airway assessment
- TMJ screening
- Smile evaluation (upon request)
We also utilize advanced dental technology to ensure a full and accurate picture of your oral health:
- Digital X-rays
- High-resolution intraoral photos
- Intraoral camera imaging
- 3D Cone Beam CT scanning (when indicated)
Together, this process helps us create a personalized, preventive care plan designed to protect your long-term oral health and well-being. Learn More about our technology.
TMJ Consultation
At 512 Smiles, we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to TMJ health.
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are essential for speaking, chewing, and overall jaw function. When these joints or the surrounding muscles aren’t working properly, symptoms like jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or limited movement can occur. Our goal is to help identify the root cause of your discomfort and guide you toward relief through conservative, personalized care.
We believe in empowering you with knowledge—because informed patients make the best decisions for their health. That’s why our TMJ evaluations are thorough, unrushed, and include ample time to discuss your concerns and walk through our findings together. “TMJ” pain can often be mluti-factorial, and it is important to evaluate your whole-health in conjunction with your TMJ.
Your TMJ journey with our office typically includes two visits:
Visit 1
TMJ Evaluation Your first visit will involve a detailed evaluation. Our doctors will take the time to understand your symptoms, review your medical and dental history, perform a clinical exam, and assess the function of your jaw joints and related muscles. It is important to note that additional imaging may be recommended for a clearer picture.
Visit 2
TMJ Consultation During your second visit, we will review all relevant records and imaging, discuss our findings, and walk you through tailored treatment options based on your specific needs.
A complete TMJ evaluation may include:
- Joint and muscle palpation
- Assessment of jaw range of motion and joint sounds
- Postural and airway screening
- Bite analysis and occlusal wear evaluation
- Sleep, stress and medication-related habit review (clenching, grinding)
Advanced diagnostic records that may be recommended include:
- Models of your teeth
- Accurate records of your bite and jaw position
- CBCT scan (3D imaging of your TMJ)
- MRI (to assess soft tissue health)
Our doctors only goal is to work towards an accurate diagnosis and provide you with care and/or referrals to help get you on the track to improved function and less pain.
Prior to your visit, please set aside 10-15 minutes to complete your new patient paperwork. If you are unable to complete the required paperwork, please arrive 15-20 minutes early. If you have nay recent dental imaging, please forward to office@512smiles.com before you visit.